Growth Mindset

The Hiltingbury Learner supports the idea of a Growth Mindset. We encourage our children (and our staff!) to see learning as a positive challenge and that our achievements will continue to grow with our efforts.

Mindset thinking is based on the research of Carol Dweck. Mindset is a way of thinking which determines our outlook, behaviour and attitude. Carol Dweck believes there are two types of mindset (growth and fixed) and that, depending on the situation, we can all either exhibit traits of a fixed or growth mindset. It isn't as simple as having one or the other, but we need to aim to view all learning with a growth mindset.

With a fixed mindset, you believe that your ability determines everything. You think things like 'I'll never get this' or 'I'm rubbish at maths' or 'It's just the way I am...I can't spell'. You give up in the face of challenge and don't see the point of trying because you don't believe effort can change anything. This is DEFINITELY not the way to think.

In year 5, we work really hard to develop growth mindset thinking. We are encouraged to view all learning situations positively and with the belief that it is our attitude, not our ability, which determines everything. Growth mindset thinking means we recognise learning is a challenge, but we are up for the challenge - we persevere, don't mind getting stuck and happily make mistakes...all because it is at these times we know that we are learning! We can grow our brains!